ISSP hosts Spring 2013 international orientation program

by Kevin Kosanovich, Reves Center for International Studies
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January 15, 2013

From January 10 - 12, 2013, the Office of International Students, Scholars, and Programs (ISSP) at the Reves Center for International Studies hosted the Spring 2013 international orientation program for 14 new exchange and degree-seeking students from Austria, Australia, Canada, China, the Netherlands, the Philippines, and Singapore.

On January 10, 2013 international students began checking-in at the Reves Center and were greeted by ISSP staff offering welcome information, snacks and room keys to those living on campus. Additionally, a local shopping trip took place in the afternoon during which students were introduced to Williamsburg public transportation. The day concluded with a pizza party providing the students with their first opportunity to socialize with their peers.

The next day was relatively light, allowing students the opportunity to ease into W&M life after their travels. Students enjoyed a leisurely morning during which many secured their W&M ID cards and took advantage of another chance to shop for necessary supplies. The afternoon was dedicated to the undergraduate transfer student orientation held at the Sadler Center.

ISSP concluded the international orientation program on January 12, 2013 with formal morning and afternoon sessions dedicated to discussing a variety of campus issues and offering more opportunities for new students to get to know each other.

In addition to icebreaking activities, the morning sessions featured a quiz devoted to immigration facts complete with prizes, and discussions on campus safety, life in the United States, health and wellness and academic life. In the afternoon, a student panel convened to provide the international students with an opportunity to ask questions about their upcoming semester at W&M. Undergraduate students then continued undergraduate transfer orientation at the Sadler Center.

“The orientation program is always an exciting time at the Reves Center,” commented Emily Hogge, immigration specialist and orientation coordinator with ISSP.

“It’s a wonderful few days during which the Reves Center gets to meet and welcome our new students. It’s our first opportunity to welcome international students to William & Mary, and to make sure we start the semester off right!”